A 23-year-old au pair has been arrested in connection with a double homicide that occurred in an upscale suburban Virginia home. Juliana Peres Magalhaes was charged with second-degree murder after authorities linked her to the shooting death of Joseph Ryan. However, she has not been charged with the murder of Christine Banfield, who was brutally stabbed in her bedroom. Peres Magalhaes made the initial 911 call, reporting that her "friend was hurt." Banfield's husband then spoke to dispatchers, claiming that he had shot an unknown man who had stabbed his wife. When police arrived at the scene, they found Banfield alive but suffering from multiple stab wounds, while Ryan was dead from a gunshot wound. A 4-year-old girl who was inside the home during the incident was unharmed.

After a seven-month investigation, police determined that Banfield's husband was not responsible for Ryan's death. Through forensic evidence and interviews, detectives concluded that Peres Magalhaes shot Ryan. The investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to review evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding Banfield's fatal stabbing. Police have not confirmed whether Ryan was responsible for stabbing Banfield or explained why he was inside the home, as there were no signs of forced entry.

Peres Magalhaes is currently being held without bond at the Fairfax County jail. She has been charged with second-degree murder and a felony use of a firearm. The au pair had no previous criminal history in Virginia, except for two misdemeanor driving charges. Banfield's husband and his lawyer have not provided any comments regarding the case.

The incident occurred in February when Peres Magalhaes called 911 twice to report the double homicide. Authorities have described it as a horrific scene, and the arrest of the au pair marks a significant development in the investigation. The motive behind the shooting and stabbing remains unclear, but detectives are actively working to uncover more details.

Fairfax County Police Department is urging anyone with information about the incident to contact their Major Crimes Bureau or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Solvers. The investigation continues as police strive to bring justice to the victims and determine the circumstances leading up to the fatal stabbing of Christine Banfield.